What distinguishes indirect taxes from direct taxes?

Indirect taxes are distinguished from direct taxes primarily by their nature of collection and how they impact consumers. When an indirect tax is applied, it is included in the price of goods and services. This means that consumers pay the tax indirectly through higher prices rather than having the tax paid directly to the government.

As consumers purchase products that include an indirect tax, they may not even realize they are paying this tax, as it is integrated into the final cost of the product. This contrasts with direct taxes, such as income tax, where individuals pay taxes directly based on their earnings.

Understanding this distinction helps clarify how governments generate revenue and how these taxes influence consumer behavior and market prices.